Google's top safety tips to avoid online fraud
What's the story
In a bid to protect users from online scams, Google has released a set of guidelines. The tech giant's advice comes as a response to the growing number of sophisticated cybercrimes, which can fool even the most vigilant internet users. The guidelines revolve around ensuring safe transactions during major events, scrutinizing investment advice, verifying websites before making purchases, and keeping device security in check among others.
Tip #1
Google advises caution during major events
Google's first tip stresses the need for caution during major events like festivals, religious celebrations, and the holiday season. The company recommends users to "make purchases or donations only through established platforms and official event organizers." It also advises users to verify charitable appeals through official channels and check URLs before clicking on unfamiliar links.
Tip #2
Google warns against fake investment advice
The second guideline from Google warns users about fraudulent investment advice, especially those that seem to come from celebrities or business leaders on social media. The company advises users to watch for unnatural facial movements or expressions in videos as these could be a sign of fake content. It also warns against investment opportunities promising unusually high returns or too good to be true, as they're likely scams.
Tip #3
Google emphasizes website verification before purchases
Google's third tip emphasizes the need to verify websites before making purchases, particularly during big sales. The company advises users to check the URL carefully and look for signs of legitimate security features. It also warns against falling for unusually low prices or urgent time pressures. To help with this, Google recommends using its 'About this' result feature and reporting any suspicious ads through 'My Ad Center.'
Tip #4
Google advises against granting remote access to devices
The fourth guideline from Google advises users never to give anyone remote access to their device based on an unsolicited call or message. The company asserts that legitimate companies won't contact users first about technical problems. If support is needed, users should always reach out through the official website or phone number of the company they want to contact. To enhance security, enabling 2-Step Verification (2SV), passkey, or password manager is recommended.
Tip #5
Google warns against fake online job offers
In its fifth tip, Google warns users about fake online job offers. The tech giant advises users to be wary of job offers that seem too good to be true or involve handling money transfers. It says legit employers won't ask for payment during the hiring process or require personal accounts for business transactions. To verify job opportunities, always use official company websites and channels.
Tip #6
Google advises caution with loan apps
In its last tip, Google recommends getting loans only from licensed financial institutions and official banking apps. The company warns users to be wary of loan apps seeking access to contacts, photos, or location as genuine lenders don't require this information. If an app promises instant approval with minimal documentation, it's probably a scam. Users can flag any issue with an app or review on Google Play for the team's attention.